Student teaching may be the most nerve-racking, and at the same time, the most rewarding experience you will ever have as a teacher. The months spent student teaching are your chance to shine and make a great impression — something you definitely want to do if landing a job quickly is your ultimate goal.

Over the years I have seen and worked alongside superstar student teachers that I am proud to now call my colleagues. I’ve also had a few whose words and actions during their internship made it impossible for me to write them a letter of recommendation. While some have joked I am a magnet for less than spectacular student teachers, I won't give up trying to find the next amazing young educator!

What sets thestarsapart from the others? Teachers I’ve spoken with about this topic seem to agree that all teachers, student or otherwise, need to show a genuine passion for teaching and children, commitment and dedication to their craft, initiative, professionalism, collegiality, and a willingness to learn and grow. Those who display these traits (along with others), early in their career only seem to get stronger and better as time goes on.

Recently I asked several teachers, staff members, and parents what advice they would offer a student teacher. You can watch their answers in the video below. Mobile users can access the video here.

For a printable copy of our best tips for student teachers, click on the image below:

I absolutely love my job and wish all new teachers the best. Teachers, I would love to know what positive advice or tips you would give a student teacher. Student teachers, I would love to hear what advice you have for your cooperating teachers! Please share your tips and advice in the comment section below!

Comments (2)

Genia, this is amazing! I'm sharing with my colleagues and principal so your video can become a first-day MUST-watch intro for our student teachers each semester. Thank you for making this! So powerful!!!

This is great! I am just starting out as a student teacher in the winter term; and I definitely appreciate all of the advice I can get! It is so nice hearing tips from so many real teachers in real classroom settings.